Accidents—including holes in drywall—happen. Fortunately, whether you need to patch up a small hole or a larger area, repairing your drywall is an easy DIY project.

Small Holes

Installing shelving and heavy mirrors or artwork can leave nail and screw holes in drywall. Both renters who need a deposit back, and homeowners who hate these unsightly holes are in luck, since these small drywall holes are the easiest to fix.

This patch kit from 3M makes it simple, and comes with spackle and an attached putty knife and sanding pad. Simply squeeze the putty into the hole, flatten with the putty knife, and sand smooth after it dries. If you’re a renter, you never have an excuse to fill holes with toothpaste again; seriously, stop doing this.

Larger Holes

For medium to larger holes (think a hole caused by a doorknob, or your child’s foot when they decide to play soccer in the house), you’ll need to cover the hole with mesh. Most kits come with self-adhesive mesh to cover the hole.

Then, use a drywall knife to cover the mesh in a crisscross pattern with putty. This pattern ensures your patch holds up to wear and tear. Once the patch is dry, sand it smooth. Larger holes may require another coat of putty.

After you finish sanding, you can repaint that section of your drywall. The patched area should be indistinguishable from the rest of your wall.

Know Your Pros: Get a Quote

We will match you with contractors in your area. Complete your request by telling us how to contact you for your free estimates.

We respect your privacy and want to make sure you are aware of a few things. By clicking below, you authorize Lee Enterprises and up to four home improvement companies that can help with your project to call you on the phone number provided, and you understand that they may use automated phone technology to call you, and that your consent is not required to purchase products or services.